Pancreas and Biliary Tract

About the Pancreas and Biliary Tract

The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach. It plays an essential role in digestion and in regulating blood glucose levels. It produces digestive enzymes that help break down food, as well as hormones such as insulin.

The biliary system includes the gallbladder and the bile ducts that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. Bile helps the body digest fats and is an important part of the digestive process.

Disorders affecting the pancreas or biliary system can directly affect digestion and overall health.

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Common Pancreatic and Biliary Conditions

Conditions affecting the pancreas and biliary tract include:

• Gallstones.
• Pancreatic cancer.
• Chronic pancreatitis.

These conditions may cause mild or severe symptoms, depending on the nature and stage of the disease.

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Common Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the condition, but commonly include:

• Pain in the upper abdomen, particularly on the right side or in the center.
• Pain that spreads to the back.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Bloating or a feeling of heaviness after eating.
• Fever.
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes, known as jaundice.
• Dark urine or pale stools.

Severe and sudden abdominal pain always requires immediate medical assessment.

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Diagnosing Pancreatic and Biliary Conditions

The diagnostic assessment may include:

• Abdominal ultrasound.
• Blood tests, including pancreatic enzymes and liver function tests.
• A CT scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), when appropriate.
• Other specialized examinations when necessary.

An accurate assessment helps determine the most appropriate treatment.

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When to Consult a Doctor

You should seek medical advice if you experience:

• Severe or persistent abdominal pain.
• Yellowing of the skin.
• Fever accompanied by abdominal pain.
• Persistent vomiting.
• Unexplained weight loss.

Early identification of pancreatic and biliary conditions can help prevent serious complications.

If you have symptoms related to the pancreas or biliary tract, you can consult the specialists at Klinika Kajo for further assessment and individualized guidance.

👉 Book a gastro-hepatology appointment here